Immerse yourself in the enchanting sounds of the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir's "A New Joy: Orthodox Christmas," a captivating collection of Orthodox Christmas music from Estonia, Russia, and Ukraine. Released on November 14, 2006, under the Harmonia Mundi label, this album is a testament to the choir's impeccable intonation and fervent energy, conducted with reverent nuance by Paul Hillier.
Spanning 55 minutes, the album features 26 tracks that blend choral and minimalist genres, offering a unique and inspiring listening experience. The choir's performance is nothing short of extraordinary, with each piece showcasing their exceptional vocal prowess and deep connection to the sacred texts they interpret.
The album opens with the hauntingly beautiful "Bell-ringing at St. Alexander Cathedral, Tallinn, Estonia," setting the stage for a journey through Orthodox Christmas traditions. Highlights include the serene "Our Father" by Nicolas Kedrov, the ethereal "Rejoice, O Virgin" by Arvo Pärt, and the joyous "A New Joy" Ukrainian carol. The choir's rendition of Alexander Kastalsky's "Verses before the Six Psalms" is particularly noteworthy, demonstrating their ability to convey both solemnity and exultation.
Throughout the album, the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir's commitment to their craft shines through, making "A New Joy: Orthodox Christmas" an essential addition to any choral music enthusiast's collection. Whether you're a fan of sacred choral music or simply appreciate the power of the human voice, this album is sure to resonate with you.
2006 Harmonia Mundi USA2006 Harmonia Mundi USA
Tracks
Bell-ringing at St. Alexander Cathedral, Tallinn, EstoniaAnonymous, Bells of St. Alexander Cathedral, Tallinn, Estonia, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Our Father (Otche nash)Nikolay Kedrov, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Rejoice, O VirginArvo Pärt, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Verses before the Six Psalms No. 2Alexander Dmitriyevich Kastalsky, Paul Hillier, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir
Shepherds of BethlehemAlexander Dmitriyevich Kastalsky, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Oh, What a Wonder!Vasyl Barvinsky, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Today the Virgin Gives BirthAlexander Dmitriyevich Kastalsky, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Verses before the Six Psalms No. 1Alexander Dmitriyevich Kastalsky, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
The Angels ExclaimedKyrylo Stetsenko, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
A New JoyKyrylo Stetsenko, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Bells Rang Early In JerusalemYakiv Yatsynevych, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
When Augustus Ruled Alone upon EarthAlexander Dmitriyevich Kastalsky, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
A Song of Good CheerMykola Dmytrovych Leontovych, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Throughout the WorldKyrylo Stetsenko, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
The LegendPyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Christ Is Born: Bells / Ode 1Georgiy Izvekov, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Christ Is Born: Ode 3Georgiy Izvekov, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Christ Is Born: Ode 4Georgiy Izvekov, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Christ Is Born: Ode 5Georgiy Izvekov, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Christ Is Born: Ode 6Georgiy Izvekov, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Christ Is Born: Ode 7Georgiy Izvekov, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Christ Is Born: Ode 8Georgiy Izvekov, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Christ Is Born: Refrain before Ode 9Georgiy Izvekov, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Christ Is Born: Ode 9Georgiy Izvekov, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
God Is With UsAlexander Dmitriyevich Kastalsky, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
Blessed Is the ManAnonymous, Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir, Paul Hillier
The Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir (EPCC) is a globally acclaimed professional choir based in Estonia, renowned for its diverse repertoire and exceptional performances. Founded in 1981 by Tõnu Kaljuste, who served as its conductor for two decades, the EPCC has since been led by notable figures such as Paul Hillier, Daniel Reuss, and Kaspars Putniņš, with Kaljuste returning as the principal conductor in 2021. The choir's repertoire spans from Gregorian chants to contemporary works, with a particular emphasis on the compositions of Estonian masters Arvo Pärt and Veljo Tormis. The EPCC has garnered international acclaim, winning Grammy Awards for Best Choral Performance in 2007 and 2014, and a Gramophone Award in 2018. Their performances are celebrated for their profound emotional depth and technical precision, making them a must-see for classical music enthusiasts.
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